Barbecued Chicken Pizza
There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating your own pizza at home, and one of my favorites has to be Barbecued Chicken Pizza. The first time I made this dish, it was a warm summer evening, and the aroma of the barbecue sauce filled my kitchen, tempting everyone nearby. I decided to get creative with dinner, using some leftover grilled chicken and a few pantry staples. As the dough baked, I could hardly wait to pull it out of the oven and take that first delicious slice. Each bite delivered a perfect blend of savory and sweet, with the crispy crust and gooey cheese complementing the tender chicken. It instantly became a family favorite, perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and weekend gatherings.
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
20 mins
10 mins
Medium
360 kcal
25 g
Keto, Gluten-Free
12 g
Baking Sheet, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Oven
What We Adore About This Barbecued Chicken Pizza
It’s a Crowd-Pleaser
Whenever I serve Barbecued Chicken Pizza, I know it’ll be a hit. Friends and family gather around, and the first slice is eagerly grabbed. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, with flavors that appeal to both adults and kids alike.
Quick and Easy
One of the best things about this recipe is how simple it is. With a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a gourmet pizza in no time. It’s perfect for those busy nights when you want something satisfying without a lot of fuss.
Perfect for Customization
Another reason I love this dish is its versatility. You can easily modify it to suit your taste. Want more heat? Add jalapeños. Prefer a vegetarian option? Use grilled veggies instead of chicken. The possibilities are endless!
Great for Meal Prep
Making a couple of Barbecued Chicken Pizzas on the weekend means you’ve got easy lunches or dinners ready to go during the week. Just bake them off when you’re ready to eat, and you’ll have a delicious meal in minutes.
Fun Activity
Making pizza at home is not just about eating; it’s an experience. Get the kids involved! They love to help spread the sauce and sprinkle the cheese. It’s a fun family activity that adds to the joy of mealtime.
Flavorful and Satisfying
The combination of smoky barbecue sauce, savory chicken, and melty cheese creates a flavor explosion in every bite. It’s the kind of pizza that makes you crave more, and it never fails to satisfy those hunger pangs.
Essential Ingredients for Barbecued Chicken Pizza
When it comes to creating the perfect Barbecued Chicken Pizza, the choice of ingredients is crucial. Each component contributes to the overall flavor and texture, ensuring a delightful bite every time. The key players here include juicy cooked chicken, zesty barbecue sauce, and stretchy mozzarella cheese, all layered on a freshly rolled pizza dough. The combination of these flavors results in a pizza that is not only fulfilling but also brings a taste of summer to your dining table.
- 1 cup diced, cooked chicken: The star of this pizza, cooked chicken adds protein and a savory flavor. It’s best to use leftovers from grilling or roasting for that perfect smoky taste.
- ½ cup barbecue sauce: This ingredient brings the sweetness and tang that complements the chicken brilliantly. Choose your favorite brand or even make your own to customize the flavor.
- One 16-ounce ball of pizza dough: Fresh pizza dough is essential for achieving a golden, crispy crust. You can buy it pre-made or whip up a quick homemade version.
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: This helps to crisp the crust and adds a rich flavor. Brush it on the dough before baking for that perfect golden finish.
- 1¼ cups shredded mozzarella cheese: The melty goodness of mozzarella is what makes pizza so irresistible. It creates that gooey texture we all love.
- ½ cup chopped red onion: This adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color. The mild sweetness of red onion balances the savory elements.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro: For a fresh finish, sprinkle cilantro on top before serving. It adds a burst of flavor and complements the barbecue sauce beautifully.
Barbecued Chicken Pizza Instructions
Making Barbecued Chicken Pizza is an enjoyable experience, allowing you to channel your inner chef. Follow these steps, and you’ll enjoy a homemade pizza bursting with flavor. Here’s how to create this tantalizing dish from scratch!
In a medium bowl, combine the chicken and barbecue sauce, mixing well. Allow the mixture to marinate for a few minutes, or for the best flavor, let it marinate for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. This step enhances the taste and ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
Preheat your oven to 400°F. This is crucial for achieving that perfect crust. A hot oven ensures the pizza dough rises well and becomes golden brown.
Roll out the fresh pizza dough onto a piece of parchment paper or a pizza stone. Use your hands or a rolling pin to stretch it into your desired shape and thickness. If you prefer a thicker crust, keep it slightly thicker around the edges.
Lightly brush the rolled-out dough with olive oil, leaving about a 1-inch edge. This will help your crust crisp up nicely in the oven, giving it that delicious golden finish.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough. Make sure to cover the entire surface, as the cheese will melt and create a beautiful layer of gooey goodness.
Evenly distribute the marinated chicken on top of the cheese. Be sure to include any extra barbecue sauce from the bowl, as it adds even more flavor.
Top the pizza with the chopped red onion, distributing it evenly. The onions will caramelize slightly in the oven, adding a lovely sweetness to your pizza.
Garnish with cilantro before baking. This will not only add flavor but also a beautiful pop of color.
Bake the pizza on the middle or top rack for 9 to 13 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the crust is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
Once done, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to slice. Then, cut into pieces and serve hot!
Things Worth Knowing
- Consistency is key: When rolling out the dough, make sure it’s even to ensure even cooking. If part of the dough is too thick, it may remain doughy while the rest cooks perfectly.
- Experiment with toppings: While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to add your favorite toppings such as jalapeños for heat or pineapple for sweetness.
- Check for doneness: Keep an eye on the crust’s color. It should be golden brown and the cheese should be bubbling, indicating it’s ready to eat!
- Let it cool: Allow the pizza to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set a little, making it easier to slice.
Making Adjustments
As with any recipe, there’s always room for creativity and adjustments. Here are some tips to help you make the best Barbecued Chicken Pizza tailored to your taste:
- Storage: Leftover pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just cover it well to keep it fresh.
- Freezing: You can freeze the pizza before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep for up to two months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Pairing: This pizza pairs well with a fresh salad or a side of grilled vegetables. It’s also great with a cold drink on a warm day.
- Variations: Try using different sauces such as teriyaki or pesto for a unique twist. You can also substitute the chicken for shredded beef or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is classic, consider mixing in some cheddar or gouda for added flavor.
Perfect Matches for Barbecued Chicken Pizza
When serving Barbecued Chicken Pizza, consider these delicious accompaniments:
- Fresh Side Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette complements the richness of the pizza.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn can be grilled and served alongside for a colorful plate.
- Perfect for Game Day: This pizza makes a fantastic snack during game days or movie nights, appealing to everyone’s taste buds.
- Casual Gatherings: Serve it at casual gatherings or birthday parties. It’s a fun food that invites sharing.
- Seasonal Pairings: During summer, serve with cold drinks like lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing meal.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Barbecued Chicken Pizza is truly a delightful dish that combines the comfort of pizza with the bold flavors of barbecue. Everyone will love it, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. I encourage you to try making it yourself; it’s easier than you think and oh so satisfying!
Barbecued Chicken Pizza
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken and barbecue sauce, mixing well. Allow the mixture to marinate for a few minutes, or for the best flavor, let it marinate for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. This step enhances the taste and ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. This is crucial for achieving that perfect crust. A hot oven ensures the pizza dough rises well and becomes golden brown.
- Roll out the fresh pizza dough onto a piece of parchment paper or a pizza stone. Use your hands or a rolling pin to stretch it into your desired shape and thickness. If you prefer a thicker crust, keep it slightly thicker around the edges.
- Lightly brush the rolled-out dough with olive oil, leaving about a 1-inch edge. This will help your crust crisp up nicely in the oven, giving it that delicious golden finish.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough. Make sure to cover the entire surface, as the cheese will melt and create a beautiful layer of gooey goodness.
- Evenly distribute the marinated chicken on top of the cheese. Be sure to include any extra barbecue sauce from the bowl, as it adds even more flavor.
- Top the pizza with the chopped red onion, distributing it evenly. The onions will caramelize slightly in the oven, adding a lovely sweetness to your pizza.
- Garnish with cilantro before baking. This will not only add flavor but also a beautiful pop of color.
- Bake the pizza on the middle or top rack for 9 to 13 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the crust is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
- Once done, remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will make it easier to slice. Then, cut into pieces and serve hot!
Notes
- Storage: Leftover pizza can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just cover it well to keep it fresh.
- Freezing: You can freeze the pizza before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it will keep for up to two months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Pairing: This pizza pairs well with a fresh salad or a side of grilled vegetables. It’s also great with a cold drink on a warm day.
- Variations: Try using different sauces such as teriyaki or pesto for a unique twist. You can also substitute the chicken for shredded beef or even grilled vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Cheese Choices: While mozzarella is classic, consider mixing in some cheddar or gouda for added flavor.
